Thousands of people poured into the Paris streets protesting against the unexpected success of far-right politician Mr Jean-Marie Le Pen in the first round of the country's presidential election.
French political leaders urged voters this morning to back President Mr Jacques Chirac and unite against Mr Le Pen who won through into the second round of the presidential election.
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Protesters march over Mr Le Pen's election result in France
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Up to 10,000 protesters marched in Paris shouting: "Le Pen is a fascist" and "I am ashamed." Protesters chanted: "First, second, third generation - we are all immigrants!" Some carried Jospin campaign signs. There were similar demonstrations in Toulouse, Montpellier and Nantes.
Mr Chirac got 20.1 per cent of the vote – the lowest score ever for an outgoing president - Mr Le Pen secured 17.3 per cent and Mr Jospin 16.3 per cent.
Mr Le Pen, who has been accused of racism and anti-Semitism during his political career, is in second place with over 95 percent of the first round vote counted, edging out Socialist Prime Minister Mr Lionel Jospin.
He will face incumbent Mr Chirac in a second-round vote on May 5th. Polls indicate Mr Chirac is certain to win re-election by a landslide.